No In-Person Show for CES — The Top Technology Show Will Be Digital In 2021

July 28, 2020

Instead of kicking off the new year with its usual in-person fervor, CES 2021 will be an all-digital experience connecting exhibitors, customers, thought leaders and media from around the globe in early January next year. According to the Consumer Technology Association, which owns and operates the show, CES’s new virtual format will allow participants to hear from technology innovators, see cutting-edge technologies, learn about new products, and engage with global brands and startups — all from the safety of their home or office.

The decision to shift the massive global technology trade show and conference to a digital format was a result of concern for the safety of the multitudes of attendees and exhibitors that converge upon Las Vegas to attend the U.S.’s largest B2B show each January, according to CTA President and CEO Gary Shapiro.

HERE is a letter from Shapiro explaining the decision in detail. 

In January of this year, the 54th edition of CES attracted 180,000 attendees and 4,400 exhibitors spanning 2.9 million square feet of space at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Sands Expo and several Las Vegas hotels.

“Amidst the pandemic and growing global health concerns about the spread of COVID-19, it’s just not possible to safely convene tens of thousands of people in Las Vegas in early 2021 to meet and do business in person,” Shapiro said.

He continued, “Technology helps us all work, learn and connect during the pandemic — and that innovation will also help us reimagine CES 2021 and bring together the tech community in a meaningful way. By shifting to an all-digital platform for 2021, we can deliver a unique experience that helps our exhibitors connect with existing and new audiences.” 

CTA officials said that CES 2021, which was originally set for Jan. 6-9, 2021, will be a highly personalized, immersive experience where attendees will have a virtual front row seat to discover the latest technologies. CES 2022 will once again take place in Las Vegas, combining the best elements of a physical and digital show.

CES ranked No. 1 on the 2019 TSNN Top Trade Shows List.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact